The objective of the project is to create a social environment in which everyone, including those with restricted physical ability, can travel comfortably without having to worry about inaccessibility.
Directly addressing the EU regulations on public procurement, the BFA project, involved partners from the European building industry, architects, public sector and NGOs, to produce a Reference Manual and training materials for professionals in the field, in relation to public procurement, accessibility and the built environment.
On the occasion of the International Day of People with Disabilities, Greek Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis and state officials visited the offices of the NGO "Disability Now" (Anapiria Tora), and announced measures that would facilitate their everyday life, including a new disability card. Disability Now is a founding member of ENAT.
European Members of Parliament have passed a resolution on a renewed EU Tourism Policy: "Towards a stronger partnership for European Tourism", calling for Member States to make a united effort to support Accessible Tourism.
At a congress held last week by the European Network for Accessible Tourism (ENAT), over 200 representatives from international disability organisations, tourist boards and private enterprise came to the overwhelming conclusion that accessible tourism is the fastest-growing business opportunity in the tourism industry.
This week the Marina d'Or beachside holiday resort in the Region of Valencia, Spain welcomes some 200 delegates at the ENAT International Congress on Tourism for All, organised by Fundación ONCE and supported by the European Commission. Guest speakers from North and South America, as well as Australia will complement European presenters from all sectors of the tourism industry, public authorities, NGOs and centres of research and education.
A Communication on an "Agenda for a sustainable and competitive European tourism" was adopted by the European Commission on 19 October 2007. It does not address 'accessible tourism'. However, as a framework for future tourism policies, it advocates "a holistic, integrated approach...involving all stakeholders". Here ENAT would expect 'accessible tourism' to play a role.
EDF - the European Disability Forum has renewed its call to lawmakers to establish a European Directive to promote equal treatment and fight discrimination against disabled people in all areas of life.
EC Regulation 1107 of 5 July 2006 specifies the conditions which operators in EU countries must meet for ensuring access to air travel by people with reduced mobility.
The Build-for-All Manual presents the rationale and a method for applying Design-for-all principles and criteria in the public procurement of buildings and infrastructure works.
The European Disability Forum has presented a renewed call for a European Directive for promoting equality and fighting against discrimination of disabled people.
Workshop Report including summary presentations and speeches by plenary speakers, workshop conclusions and photos from the optional excursion to accessible attractions in Athens.
